Château d’Yquem

The story of Yquem begins in 1593, when Jacques de Sauvage acquired the estate from the French crown. By the 18th century, under the stewardship of Françoise-Joséphine de Sauvage d’Yquem, the property earned its reputation for uncompromising quality—a reputation that drew admirers from Thomas Jefferson to European royalty. In the landmark 1855 Bordeaux Classification, Yquem was elevated above all others as Premier Cru Supérieur, a distinction it retains to this day. Today, the estate is part of the LVMH group, with Pierre Lurton continuing its tradition of excellence while embracing modern sustainability practices.

Perched at the highest point in Sauternes, Yquem’s 113 hectares enjoy a unique microclimate that encourages the development of Botrytis cinerea, the “noble rot” essential for its signature style. The vineyard is predominantly planted with Sémillon (around 80%) for its richness, with Sauvignon Blanc providing aromatic lift. Farming is organic and increasingly biodynamic, with meticulous handwork and low yields—averaging just one glass of wine per vine. Harvest is a feat of endurance: up to 200 pickers make multiple passes through the vineyard, selecting only perfectly botrytised berries. In some years, nature does not oblige, and no Yquem is produced—a testament to the estate’s uncompromising standards.